Page 15 - IFV Issue 8 August 2024

Gardening

IT’S TIME FOR PRUNING ROSES

BY ELIZA MALAN

runing is all about preparing for a
flourishing new season. Pruning
Proses is a crucial gardening
task that promotes healthy growth,
abundant blooms and overall vigour. For
South African gardeners, the ideal time
to prune roses is from the late winter to
early spring, typically from late July to
early September. We provide a step-by-
step guide to help you prune your roses
and get them ready for the new season. 3. Cut back old canes Post-pruning care
Pruning is essential for several Remove old, woody canes that are no Watering: Ensure that your roses
reasons: longer producing vigorous growth. This receive adequate water, especially if the
• It encourages new growth will encourage new, productive stems. weather is dry.
Cutting back old wood stimulates the 4. Shape the bush Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer
rose bush to produce new stems. Cut back remaining canes to shape to provide essential nutrients for new
• It shapes the plant the bush. Aim to open up the centre growth.
Pruning helps maintain a desirable of the plant to improve air circulation. Mulching: Add a layer of mulch around
shape and size, making your rose bush Make your cuts above outward-facing the base of the plant to retain moisture
more attractive. buds to encourage growth away from and suppress weeds.
• It improves air circulation the centre.
Removing excess branches improves air 5. Trim to the desired height Here are some final tips to bear in mind:
circulation, reducing the risk of diseases. Depending on the type of rose, trim • Prune on a dry day to prevent the
• It enhances bloom quality the canes to a height of about 45cm spread of diseases.
By removing old and weak growth, the to 60cm (18 to 24 inches). For larger • Always make clean, angled cuts to
plant can focus its energy on producing varieties, you can leave them a bit taller. prevent water from sitting on the
better blooms. 6. Remove weak growth cuts and causing rot.
Thin out any spindly or weak growth. • Inspect your roses regularly for signs
Tools you will need This allows the plant to direct its energy of pests or disease, and take action
Sharp pruning shears: For clean cuts to stronger canes. promptly.
that heal quickly. 7. Clean up By following these steps, you’ll ensure
Gloves: To protect your hands from Gather all pruned material and that your roses are well-prepared for
thorns. dispose of it properly. This helps the upcoming growing season, leading
Disinfectant: To clean your shears and prevent the spread of diseases and to a garden filled with vibrant, healthy
prevent the spread of disease. pests. blooms. Happy gardening!

Steps to prune roses
1. Prepare your tools
Ensure that your pruning shears are
sharp and clean. Disinfect them to
prevent disease transmission.
2. Remove dead and diseased wood
Start by cutting away any dead,
diseased or damaged wood. Make your
cuts at least an inch below the affected
area, ensuring that you reach healthy
wood.

The Villager • Issue 7 2024 • 13